What happens if conditions do not improve for bleached corals?

What happens if conditions do not improve for bleached corals?

• A. They thrive and grow stronger
• B. They begin to deteriorate and can perish
• C. They return to their natural color immediately
• D. They create new reefs

Answer: (B)

When conditions do not improve for bleached corals, they begin to deteriorate and can potentially perish. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that live within their tissues. This process is usually triggered by stress factors such as increased water temperature, pollution, or changes in water chemistry. Without these algae, which provide the coral with food through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant color, corals not only lose their color but also their vital energy source. If the stressful conditions persist, bleached corals are unable to recover. Their health declines as they cannot obtain enough nutrients, leading to a weakened state. Over time, if the unfavorable conditions continue, the corals can die, resulting in a loss of biodiversity and negative impacts on the entire marine ecosystem that depends on coral reefs for habitat and protection. This degradation is concerning, as coral reefs are crucial for marine life and coastal protection.

When conditions do not improve for bleached corals, they begin to deteriorate and can potentially perish. Coral bleaching occurs when corals expel the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that live within their tissues. This process is usually triggered by stress factors such as increased water temperature, pollution, or changes in water chemistry. Without these algae, which provide the coral with food through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant color, corals not only lose their color but also their vital energy source.

If the stressful conditions persist, bleached corals are unable to recover. Their health declines as they cannot obtain enough nutrients, leading to a weakened state. Over time, if the unfavorable conditions continue, the corals can die, resulting in a loss of biodiversity and negative impacts on the entire marine ecosystem that depends on coral reefs for habitat and protection. This degradation is concerning, as coral reefs are crucial for marine life and coastal protection.